Nottingham, UK, 28 May 2007 - 3D Laser Mapping, the UK based specialists in laser measurement technology and software, has supplied ARKeX with a second LiDAR system to improve the accuracy of their airborne geological mapping. ARKeX offers a complete service to clients in the oil, gas and mining industries, including planning and execution of geological surveys, airborne data acquisition, data processing and geological interpretation of the resulting information. The Riegl LMS Q240i unit from 3D Laser Mapping is an essential tool for improving the accuracy of both surface and sub-surface measurements and is also used to create detailed 3D models for additional ground exploration projects.

ARKeX are specialists in airborne gravity gradiometry. This is a powerful exploration tool for the oil, gas and mining industries that measures very small variations in the earth’s gravitational field caused by density contrasts, as a result of sub-surface geology. The major density contrast; between the surface of the earth and air above it, known as terrain correction needs to be removed if the sub surface geology is to be accurately observed. By using airborne LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), ARKeX are able to accurately map the terrain that they fly over and use this highly detailed data to remove terrain correction. LiDAR data is therefore an essential component in processing airborne gravity gradiometer data and due to demand and the successful application of a Riegl Q240 two years ago this is the second unit to be purchased from 3D Laser Mapping. ARKeX also use LiDAR to create detailed 3D models for clients to plan subsequent ground based surveys.

“The Riegl laser scanner records detailed and accurate measurements that are an essential component for processing the specialist data we capture,” said Phil Jones, Operation Manager at ARKeX UK. “By recording all measurements in a single flight we achieve significant cost advantages while retaining the accuracy and integrity of the data.”

3D laser scanners capture highly accurate and detailed surface measurements by transmitting optical pulses that are reflected from the ground or surface feature. Using the time taken for each individual pulse to be returned and the known value of the speed of light, the system accurately calculates the distance of the surface or feature from the scanning unit. The Riegl LMS Q240i is highly rugged yet lightweight and compact, making it ideal for installation on an aircraft. By combining the laser measurements with information from other on-board sensors, such as GPS and inertial navigation systems (INS), the exact position of the aircraft and therefore the scanning unit and other specialist measurement devices, can be calculated and used for processing of recorded data.

3D Laser Mapping is a UK based specialist in laser scanning solutions and the Riegl Premier Distributor for the UK, Ireland and sub-Saharan Africa. 3D Laser Mapping integrate laser scanner hardware systems with their own software and peripherals to create robust solutions for mapping, mining and manufacturing.

Reader enquiries to Dr Graham Hunter, 3D Laser Mapping Ltd, Email Contact
tel: +44 (0) 870 442 9400, www.3dlasermapping.com